What is Palliative Care

What is Palliative Care

Pal·li·a·tive or pal·ia·ate: to ease symptoms, to provide comfort care

Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with life-limiting illnesses. Care can begin as soon as diagnosis and is focused on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a serious illness. Patients receiving palliative care can still seek curative treatments.

Is Palliative Care the Same as Hospice Care?

No. The goals of both types of care are symptom and pain management. Palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatment during any stage of a serious illness, while hospice focuses on preserving quality of life after a life-expectancy diagnosis of six months or less.